To get the best experience while viewing this site, it is recommended that you upgrade to a modern browser version of Chrome or Firefox.

You may do so by clicking on one of these icons:


southern new mexico surgery center
 
  •  

  •  
    Health Library Explorer
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
    Adult Health Library
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Topic IndexLibrary Index
    Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.
    Click 'Topic Index' to return to the index for the current topic.
    Click 'Library Index' to return to the listing of all topics.

    Oral Medicines for Type 2 Diabetes

    There are many types of pills for type 2 diabetes. Each type helps to lower blood sugar (glucose) in a different way. You may need to take one or more types of these pills.

    Only people with type 2 diabetes can use oral medicines to manage their diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin.

    Diabetes pills that lower blood sugar levels include:

    Biguanides

    These pills reduce the amount of sugar made in the liver.

    Sulfonylureas

    These pills stimulate the beta cells in the pancreas to make more insulin. They are either short- or long-acting.

    Meglitinides

    These pills stimulate the beta cells in the pancreas to make more insulin. They work quickly. But they wear off quickly too.

    Thiazolidinediones

    These pills help insulin work better in the muscle and fat. They also reduce the amount of sugar made in the liver.

    Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors

    These pills block the enzymes that digest starches. They also help slow the breakdown of some sugars. This stops blood sugar from rising quickly after you eat.

    DPP-IV inhibitors

    These pills boost the body's own ability to lower blood sugar. They do this by blocking an enzyme called DPP-IV (dipeptidyl peptidase).

    SGLT2 inhibitors 

    These pills block the kidney's ability to reabsorb sugar from the blood. Extra sugar is passed in your urine.

    Bile acid sequestrants 

    These pills are often used to lower cholesterol. But they also lower blood sugar.

    Dopamine-2 agonists

    Experts think these medicines help the body's cells respond better to insulin.

    GLP-1 receptor agonists

    Although usually taken as an injection, this type of medicine is now available in pill form. These increase the amount of insulin your body releases with meals. Some of these have also been shown to help with weight loss.

    Some people with type 2 diabetes may take a combination of diabetes pills and insulin. Your healthcare provider will talk with you about your treatment options. Together you will decide on a plan that works best for you. Follow your provider's directions. They will tell you the times, dosage, and frequency of each type of medicine prescribed.

    Having a healthy diet and a regular exercise program are also important. That can help control diabetes, even when taking oral medicines. These pills are made to work with diet and exercise. They don't replace them.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Robert Hurd MD
    Date Last Reviewed: 4/1/2022
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
    horizontal line

    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Disclaimer